Hasan Minhaj Lost ‘Daily Show’ Host Gig Amid Jokes Scandal; Jon Stewart Called Him and Questioned the Backlash: ‘Why the F— Are They Doing This?’

As a long-time fan of Hasan Minhaj, it is heartbreaking to see him go through such a tumultuous time in his career. His story serves as a stark reminder of the harsh realities and unpredictable nature of showbiz. The way he handled the controversy with grace, humility, and honesty is truly commendable. It’s unfortunate that his dreams were dashed due to an issue that could have been avoided had people understood the art of comedy better.

In an interview with Esquire magazine, Hasan Minhaj recalled a lengthy discussion he had with Jon Stewart during the controversy that led to Minhaj losing his coveted job as host of Comedy Central’s “The Daily Show.” Notably, Stewart held this position from 1999 until 2015 and will return periodically up until the 2024 presidential election.

Minhaj admitted to Esquire that “The Daily Show” position was secured, explaining: “Discussions were underway, and I had been offered the role, with everything seemingly set.” However, a controversy ensued when The New Yorker published a profile on Minhaj, fact-checking some of his jokes. It was uncovered that Minhaj had exaggerated several incidents for his stand-up performances, leading to a backlash which ultimately led to the loss of the “The Daily Show” hosting position. This is just part of the show business world.

Following the incident, Hasan Minhaj conversed with several comedian friends and mentors who offered their support. Among those reaching out were Mike Birbiglia, Ramy Youssef, John Mulaney, and Jon Stewart. He engaged in lengthy conversations with all of them over the phone.

Minhaj recalled that Jon Stewart had phoned, expressing his confusion by asking, “What’s the reasoning behind this, and who gains from it?

Without a shadow of a doubt, it was quite uncomfortable,” the comic remarked regarding the criticism. “I hadn’t realized before just how swift and powerful the internet can be, how rapidly a tale can spread. That aspect left me feeling bewildered and off-balance.

Minhaj stated, “What hurts me most is seeing my wife and parents suffer. It’s agonizing to watch them turn to the internet for advice, especially when I know I could be helping them better. As the eldest, I feel deeply saddened that I have disappointed them…I am grateful they have witnessed the joyous peaks of my career. However, witnessing their pain during a difficult or embarrassing moment in my career is something I wish I hadn’t put them through. That’s the challenging part.

In August 2023, EbMaster exclusively announced that Minhaj had become a leading contender to become the permanent host of “The Daily Show,” after Trevor Noah’s departure from the show. Previously, Minhaj was among several guest hosts who temporarily filled in while Comedy Central was seeking a permanent replacement for Noah. However, in September 2023, an interview with The New Yorker was published, and subsequently, EbMaster reported that due to criticism faced by Minhaj, Comedy Central had decided to expand their search beyond him for the host position of “The Daily Show.

Minhaj clarified to EbMaster following the release of the story that all his stand-up tales are derived from personal experiences. Just like in stand-up comedy, he employs techniques such as exaggeration, altering names and places, and condensing timelines to create engaging narratives. This creative license is an inherent aspect of the art form. You wouldn’t question the authenticity of a haunted house experience, focusing instead on the thrill. The same principle applies to stand-up comedy.

Head over to Esquire’s website to read Minhaj’s cover story in its entirety.

2024-09-25 17:46

Hasan Minhaj Lost ‘Daily Show’ Host Gig Amid Jokes Scandal; Jon Stewart Called Him and Questioned the Backlash: ‘Why the F— Are They Doing This?’

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